The programme, funded by the UK Government, is aimed primarily at school-aged children and young people from low-income households that meet specific criteria based on income and benefits.
Councillor Roz Chadd, the County Council’s Executive Lead Member for Children’s Services, approved £3,620,130 funding for 2027 to 2028, helping eligible children and young people to stay active, eat well and enjoy a change of scene during the Easter, summer, winter and February half term school holidays. The sessions, which vary by provider, all offer a mixture of sports, arts and outdoor activities alongside a hot, balanced meal.
Following her decision, Councillor Chadd said: “The school holidays should give children the chance to enjoy new experiences, stay active and spend time with others. By continuing this government-funded programme, we can provide nutritious food and enriching activities for eligible children, while offering valuable support to families and communities across Hampshire.”
Following revised rules introduced earlier this year, the programme is available to children eligible for ‘targeted free school meals’ - a new category that applies to families in receipt of free school meals and whose household income is less than £7,400 per year.
Funding for each delivery period will be divided proportionately between Hampshire’s district areas, based on the number of eligible children in each area. This will help ensure that funding is directed to communities according to levels of need.
The programme will continue to support other eligible children and young people across Hampshire, including those with special educational needs or disabilities and those living in rural areas.
Families can read the eligibility criteria and apply for free school meals on the County Council website.
The next HAF provision will take place over the Christmas holidays. Parents and carers are encouraged to sign up to the Hampshire HAF newsletter to keep in touch with the latest information on nearby schemes and booking opportunities.